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ALACHUACOUNTY 



ITS RESOURCES AND ADVANTAGES. 



GAINESVILLE 



A HEALTHFUL, 
PROGRESSIVE CITY. 



GAINESVILLE, FLA. 

DAILY SUN BOOK PRINT, 

1898. 




FLORIDA. 



ALACHUA COUNTY 



ITS RESOURCES AND ADVANTAGES. 



GAINESVILLE 



3/l\ J— A HEALTHFUL, 

'i)f PROGRESSIVE CITY. 



GilNESVILLE, FLA. 
DAILY SUN BOOK PRINT, 

1898. 



41627 



1899 






P[[EFACE. 



No pretense is made in this publication to furnish rap- 
turous descriptions of the advantages otTered by Alachua 
County to Home-Seekers or Investors, but rather plain facts 
in regard to its resources. Those who contemplate visiting 
the State or becoming inhabitants thereof, will do well to 
consider Alachua's advantages before investing elsewhere. 



FLORIDA. 



Florida was first discovered in 1497 by John Cabot, a 
Venetian mariner in the service of Henry VII, King of Eng- 
land, but more completely discovered in the year 1512 by 
Jaiin Ponce de Leon, who gave it the name of Florida 
because it was first seen in Easter, called Pasqua de Flores 
in the language of his country, or as Herreva alledges, be- 
cause it was f(nind to l)e covered with flowers, and the most 
beautiful blossoms- Although it has ))een four hundred 
years since its discovery, until within a comparitively recent 
period it has been almost an unknown country even to the 
American people, but, during recent years, the state has 
made rapid progress in p(^pulation and wealth, and to-day 
stands the ]^eer of any in all the elements requisite for the 
establishment of happy and prosperous homes. 

Florida is the largest State east of the Mississippi river, 
having an area of 59,268 square miles. Its shape is very 
much like "the ])oot of Italy," and the average width of 
the peninsula is 120 miles. It is bounded by the Gulf of 
Mexico on the South and West, the Atlantic Ocean on the 
East, and Georgia on the North. It lies nearer the equator 
than any other portion o? Ilic rnited States, or the most 
southerly part of Europe. 

The following article recently appeared in a leading 
Northern paper: "The state of Florida is boasting of the 
great progress it has made iii every ) ranch of industry, in 



wealth, population, etc., and it has good grounds for its 
hoasts. Its progress has been as rapid as any portion of 
the Union, and challenges comparison with the most pros- 
perous states of the North and West, while its educational 
advancement has lit'en such as to show that it goes forward 
mentally and materially at the same time." 

The population of th(» state today is 500,000; as com- 
pared with the population in 1885, it was 342,000; and in 
1880, 209,000. This shows a liigh rate of increase. 

In railroads are seen wonderful improvements. There 
are today 3,174 miles in operation and the value of rolling 
stock $2,370,000, as compared with 1688 miles in 1885, and 
528 in 1880. 

In public schools the comparison is as follows: Number 
of schools in 1880, 1,131, attendance 39,000; number of 
schools in 1898, 2,538, attendance 108,455. 

The per cent, of increase in enrollment . between 1888 
and 1898 was 32. The per cent, of increase in the United 
States for tlu' same period was 13. 



FLORID/ FINAI(CES. 

The state's entire debt for all purposes is $1,232,500. Of 
this sum the state holds in licr educational funds and under 
her contnd, $850,800, and in her internal improvement 
fund, $25,000, leaving in the hands of individuals $356,700. 
The l)(»nds repn'senting the.se amounts are held at a prem- 
ium, although tliey have but a few years to run. The debt 
of the state is not over $2.50 per capita, I^eing less than any 
state in the I^nion, and her state tax ])roper smaller than 
any Southern state. 

The total value of all taxal)le properties in the State 
for 1897 was over $95,000,000. 

The acreage and value of t'arm |)n)(lucts f(jr 1895, the 
latest report (j))tainable, as follows: 

Total area in cultivation 827,286 acres. 

G 



Total value of field crop? $8,085,313. 

Vegetalole and garden products $1,288, -^56 

Fruit crops, 651,590 

Live stock, 0,944,487 

Poultry, 608,483 

Dairy Products, 892,638 

Miscellaneou.s products, 167,943 

Total, $18,638,805 



RESOUpS. 

Florida is one of the richest states in the Union. Capi- 
tal and la)3or"only are necessary to develop its vast re- 
sources. In no other state will with so little labor produce 
as much. What is needed first is population; industrial 
development will be accompanied by capital. Its resources 
for manufacturing purpo.5es are varied, and practically 
without limit. Tliere are hundreds of water powers lying 
idle as on the day of their creation, awaiting the develop- 
ment that a new era of progress must certainly bring. 

In addition to the wonderful fertility of lands, there 
are rich and extensive deposits of pliospluite, kaolin, ochres, 
tire and alluminum clays, gypsum and fullers earth, whose 
value cannot be overestimated. Vast forests of pine, oak, 
hickory, bay, magnolia, ash, gum, cypress and cedar, form 
in the aggregate a great storehouse of well nigh inexhausti- 
Ijle'supply for~utilizalion in arts, and the development of 
industrial enterprises. 



CLIMATE. 



The climate of Florida is generally misunderstood by 
residents of Northern states unacquainted with its charac- 
ter. " The majority believe that the weather is fearfully 
warm in the summer and almost unbearable by white peo- 
ple. A greater mistake could not be made, for the summers 

■ 7 



are never oppressively hot, and are cooler than those of any 
state in the union. If the thermometer goes up to 98 " the 
weatlier is considered fearfully hot, yet it would not bo 
thought so by those from the North, for they would appre- 
ciate the brisk sea breezes that blow almost continually from 
the gulf or ocean, or the pleasant coolness which is always 
found in the shade, even during the most torrid portion of 
the day. Summer is also the rainy season in Florida, and 
showers are almost daily from June to September. These 
cool the atmosphere immediately and often make it seem 
chilly. The winters are mild and pleasant; the thermom- 
eter seldom falling lower than 32. As compared with the 
winter weather of more Northern states there is a vast dif- 
ference in favor of Florida. Th(? difference in the mean 
monthly temperature the 3'ear around is seldom more 
than 30 - . 

It may be asserted without fear of conlradicticui that 
Florida posesses a more agreeable climate than any other 
stat(» in the Union. 

As respects health, the climate of Florida stands pre- 
eminent. That the peninsular climate of the state is much 
more salubrious than that of any other state in the Union, 
is clearly established by the medical statistics of the army. 
These records also show that the ratio of deaths to the num- 
ber of cases of remittent fever has be(ui much less in Florida 
tlian among llie troops stationed in any other portion of the 
I'nited States. In the middle division of the states the pro- 
portion is 1 death to 3G cases; in tin; Southern division 1 to 
54, wliilr ill Floi"i(hi. it is I)ut 1 to 2<S7. 

The atmosphere of Florida is a medicine that has cured 
thousands of patients. For consumption and all pulmon- 
ary diseases whatever, for nervous disorder, and for the aged 
wliose vital forces begin to slirink before tiie austerities of 
the Northern wi^ather, the climate of Florida is a fountain 
of healing and new life. Scattered all over the state are 
nu'ii and women healthy and vigorous, who, in years gon*; 
))y, canif,' to Florida as a last resource from doatli. There 
are Hcverul oxcollont reasons wliich will account for the ex- 

8 



tmordinary healthfulnoss of the people, and among them 
may be mentioned the equibleuess of the climate, the per- 
sistent sea breezes, the alnmdance of ozone — produced from 
forests of pine, the well drained sandy soil, freedom from 
caretaking, pleasant occupations, the absence of pinching 
poverty, and the abundance of life giving sunshine through- 
out the year. 



/LACHUA COUHTY. 



Alachua, oue of the largest counties in llio State, lies 
just south of the 30 ® of north latitude, and between the 
82^ and 8.'5 - of longitude west from C-rreenwich; it is 
bounded on the north l»y Suwannee, Colum])ia and Brad- 
ford comities; east by the counties of Clay and Putnam; 
south l)y Marion and Levy; and west by LaFayette, from 
which it is separated by tlie Suwannee river. Its area is 
1,2(50 square miles, or 806,400 acres. The population is esti- 
mated at 32,500 as compared with 28,207 in 1895. 

It is 250 feet above the ocean's level, and far enough 
SDutli to l)e free from the ice, snow and chilling winds of 
the north, and is fanned l)y the gentle breezes from the 
(julf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, the distance to 
cither being about 45 miles. For natural beauties, fertility 
of soil, perfect drainage, a light, dry and invigorating at- 
mosphere, good water, good society and educational advan- 
tages, the county is not excelled by any portion of the 
State, and the healthfuluess of the county is not excelled 
by any [)ortion of the United States. Pliysicians all testify 
that any disease in Florida is less liable to terminate iu 
death lliau the same in higher latitudes. For a territory so 

10 



large the average auuiial death rate is exceedingly small, be- 
ing only 11 per 1,000. The pine lands, which are unusually 
healthy, are nearly everywhere studded at intervals of a 
few miles with rich hammocks varying in extent from 
twenty to forty thousand acres. Unlike the hammocks of 
other sections of the State, no marshy or flat lands are 
found, the absence of which make them healthy and habita- 
ble. 



COSMOPOLlTAt^ POPULATION. 



There are in Alachua County, like all places of mixed 
people, representatives of nearly every sect in the Chris- 
tian religion, and in the larger places a goodly sprinkling of 
Jews. The Churches are principally Baptist, Methodist, 
Presbyterian and Episcopal, all of which are well supported. 
The White people represent every State in the Union, from 
Maine to California, and are, in their moral and intellectual 
status, of the advanced classes of the old States. Intelli- 
gence predominates in all the essential avenues of business 
and principal occupations of life. There is no ostracism 
of settlers from other places and all worthy comers are 
heartily welcomed, and will meet with well wishes on every 
hand . 



FIN/INCES. 



The assessed valuation of property in Alachua is 
,$3,856,938, which ^represents about one-third of its value. 
The tax rate for all purposes is 14| mills. The county is 
out of debt, with funds on deposit. This is due entirely to 
the economy and care that have characterized the expendi- 
ture of funds by the County Commissioners. At Gaines- 
ville, the county seat, is the Court House, one of the most 
imposing structures in the State. It was erected in 1885 
and [is fitted with all modern conveniences. Cost $60,000 

11 



Those who coutemphilo removing to this eoiuity will 
not have to assist in the payment of a comity debt, but 
will 1.1' calhd upon only for their pro rata share neces- 
s;irv to IIh' niainlcnance of county and State. 

EDUCATION." 

No county in the State can boast of better educational 
advantages than Alachua. At the head of this department 
are men who have the sole interests and advancement of the 
youths at heart . 

There arc today seventy-three white schools, with an 
enrollment of 3,500, and forty-six colored schools with an 
(Mirollment of 3,000. The total expenditures for educational 
purposes annually aggregate the handsome sum of $50,000. 

/\GR1CULTURAL PRODUCTIONS. 

It is confidently believed that no county in the State, 
nor elsewhere, can boast of a greater variety of products 
than Alachua. Wheat is the only cereal that cannot be 
abundantly produced. Cotton, tobacco, sugar cane, vegeta- 
bles, grain and fruits can be raised in the greatest profusion. 
So can stock of all kinds be reared in great numbers. 
While Alachua is far ahead of any other county in the 
State in truck I'arming and fruit culture, general agricul- 
tural slalistics on I'ccord in the office of the Secretary of 
Agriculture show that she also ranks first in general farm- 
ing. This is due altogether to the thrift, enterprise and 
persistency of her farmers, which is responsible for their 
success; this county has within her l)orders vast tracts of 
lands which can be cultivated with ])rolit by an}' intelligent 
farmer. 

Not onh' is nearly every acre adapted to the cultivation 
of general farm products, but the remarkable fertility of 
the soil has made p()ssil)le numy great successes in farming. 
Corn for meal and hominy, oats, rye, rice, sugar, syrup, to- 
bacco and potatoes can be produced in larger quantities on 
any good laiul, than nuiy be required for home use, and the 
(ixcess can be readily sold for good prices. From this rove- 

12 



mie the farmer can supply himself and family with Hour, 
cotfee and nxany luxuries of life. Finders, pumpkins, chu- 
fas, potatoes, etc., all easily raised, will fatten hogs neces- 
sary for meat or to sell. 

Corn on ordinary pine land yields from twenty to thirty 
bushels to the acre, and on good hammock land from thirty 
to sixty. 

Rye and oats average from thirty-five to one hundred 
bushels per acre. 

Rice is raised principally for domestic use and yields 
from twenty-five to seventy-five ])ushels per acre. 

The average yield of sweet potatoes is 200 to 400 bush- 
els, and peanuts seventy-five bushels per acre. 

Casava of the very best quality, arrow-root, castor 
beans, grasses, millet, fiber plants, etc., are grow^n and as- 
sist materially in the reduction of farm expenses. 

The advantages this county offers to those who prefer 
the general farm life to Truck Growing or raising an Orange 
Grove, Orchard or Vineyard, are excelled by no part of the 
United States. Any farmer in this county can make his oc- 
cupation self sustaining and independent of the fatal sys- 
tem of credit, and the county challenges the state as to the 
prosperous condition of her farmers. 



COTTON. 

The soil throughout the entire county is especially 
adapted to the cultivation of Sea Island Cotton, producing 
a staple that will grade fully equal to that of South Caro- 
lina, which is acknowledged to be the hom(> of the cotton 
plant, when proper care is taken in the selection of seed 
and cultivation. This fact is being realized to a certain ex- 
tent abroad, and as a result Messrs. H.F. Button & Co., 
of Gainesville, ship large quantities of Alachua seed into 
other portions of the State aud lower Georgia. At the Paris 
Exposition, Messrs. Button & Co. exhibited cotton raised in 
this county that was awarded a gold medal for the "High- 
est Award Merit," as to the length, strenght and fineness of 
staple, over all other cottons. Cotton from this county 

13 



has also received gold medals and special notices at various 
expositions, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta and New Or- 
leans, and is favorably known to the manufacturers all over 
the world. The average annual production of cotton is 
5,000 bales, valued at $275,000 or more, 

TOBACCO. ~ 

The development of Tobacco culture in Florida is now 
no longer a matter of theory or sentiment, but is a practical 
enterprise. The amount of tobacco grown in Florida has 
increased so rapidly, and to such an extent, that its cul- 
ture is now one of tho most important industries in the 
State. The quality of Florida tobacco grown from impor- 
ted Vuelta de Abajo seed is very fine and the largest leaf 
dealers are giving it a very prominent place in their combi- 
nations for fiiK^ cigars. Florida Havana wrappers have been 
sold for the imported article very extensively during the 
last two years. The soil for tobacco culture should be rich 
in vegetable mould or humus and of a reddish, chocolate or 
grayish color, with a yellowish clay or hardpan subsoil, not 
loo near the surface. Such lands are found in al)undai:ce 
in Alachua County. 

The managiu" of the tobacco warehouses in Gainesville, 
whoro most of llw Alnchua County crop is sorted, bituned 
and bailed, has had years of experience in handling all va- 
lielies of cigar tobacco, both impi)rt(Hl and domestic, and is 
also a ])racti('al ('i<i;armak('r. He pronomices the ))(>st to- 
b.icco grown in this county equal to any grown in Cuba. The 
fillers aroof line Ihivor and aroma, and the wrappers thin and 
silky, of fiiii' texture, very elastic and liiu' to l)urn. A vast 
mine of wealth awaits those who will come to Alachua and 
interest themselves in the cultivation of this article. 

^UGAR CANE. 

The growing of sugar cane in the State of Florida is 
assuming larger proportions each year. No State in the Un- 
ion has soils and climate better adapted to its growing. It 
i.i a crop e.i.vily a-id che.iply grown and cgnvertable into a 

14 



marketable product, and one that commands a ready sale in 
any market. Much interest is now had in beet culture and 
sugar making in the West, Were it generally known that 
larger amounts of better sugar could be made in Florida, at 
a much less cost per acre, with much leas labor, and with 
but little skill in growing, with far less capital required for 
machinery and manufacturing than in beet sugar-making, 
vast sums would be invested in the lousiness. Alachua is 
one of the largest sugar cane producing counties of the 
State, and there are within her borders thousands of r.eres 
admirably adapted to its culture, awaiting development. 

TpK FARMING. 

No industry in the State offers greater inducements for 
capital and labor than the growing of early vegetables for 
the Northern and Western markets, and no section of the 
State offers such great natural advantages for early vegeta- 
ble growing as the county of Alachua, Nor is there a 
county in the State so extensively engaged in the business. 
Here are located the most extensive vegetable fields in the 
South, and this may properly be denominated a "Garden 
County." Truck farming is an industry that has grown to 
wonderful proportions Avithin a few years, paying large pro- 
fits of several hundred dollars per acre. The vegetables 
which can be most profitably grown are: Artichokes, 
Beans, Beets, Cabbage, Carrots, Cauliflower, Celery, Cu- 
cumbers, Egg-Plants, Irish Potatoes, Lettuce, Mustard, 
Okra, Onions, Parsnips, Peas, Pumpkins, Radishes, Squashes, 
Sweet Potatoes, Tomatoes and Turnips, 

Fruits of the following varieties are grown: Apricots, 
Berries of all varieties. Figs, Grapes, Oranges, Pears, 
Peaches, Persimmons, Plums, Pomegranates, Quinces and 
Melons of the different varieties. 

Strawberries are raised in large quantities, and are a 
sure and good crop, netting most growers from 10 to 20 
cents per quart during the shipping season. They ripen 

15 



early in February until July, and arc shipped to North- 
ern markets in refrigerator boxes or cars. 

There are several varieties of grapes that thrive, of 
which the Scuppernong is the most hardy and yeilds the 
best returns. 

Oranges can be more extensively grown in Florida 
than in any other State of the Union, and from the ad- 
vantages which the State enjoys in certain peculiarities 
of climate, soil and season, it is more than likely that it 
will ever retain a superority over competitors. In 
Alachua County are many of the finest groves and for- 
tunes have been made and are being made by the indus- 
trious horticulturist. 

Watermelons and Cantaloupes are extensively planted 
and are a source of great profit to those who study their 
culture. Hundreds of cars are shipped out of this county 
during a season, bringing in return many thousands of 
dollars. Mr. C. A. Colclough of Gainesville is one of 
the most successful growers in the State. From forty- 
five acres of Cantaloupes in cultivation last season he 
netted over $10,000. 

Peaches do well with proper attention, and consider- 
able revenue is derived from the shipment of the early 
crops to Northern markets. Many varieties are grown 
and ripen early enough to be placed on the New York 
market in May. 

The LeConte and Keifer Pear do exceeding well and 
furnish the table with fruit for nearly six months. The 
shipping season begins in June. Pears are used at home 
for canning, preserving and vinegar making. 

There is an inviting field in Alachua County for a 
firj^t-class Canning Factory. Vegetables and fruits could 
be secured with little effort and at very low prices after 
the best of the shii)ping seasons arc over. 

PHOSPHATE. ' 



One of the grcatei^t and most profitable industries in 
the State todny. is the mining and shipping of phosphate. 
This is an industry that in recent years has assumed 

16 



mammoth proportions. In Alachua County are the most 
extensive deposits and pkmts in America. Statistical 
reports of phosphate shipped out of the State show that 
this county has, during ihe past three years, shipped 
nearly one-half of the entire output. 



TlMBEIj. 



Nature has covered thousands of acres in Alachua 
County with a growth of timber rarely seen. Hickory 
trees from one to seven feet in diameter; oak two to 
four; ash one to three; magnolia one to five, and a mul- 
titude of other varieties of hardwood trees, suggest the 
character of forestry. The accessibility, and character 
of the timber makes this section peculiarly desirable for 
the location of factories requiring hard wood, and no 
section of the State offers better inducements than this 
to the manufacturers of Wagons, Carriages, Baskets 
and Woodenware, Furniture, Agricultural Implements, 
etc., because the woods with which to make them are 
convenien , cheap and eas^^ of transportation. 

Tlie supply of Florida Pine is abundant, and many 
mills are being successfully operated along the lines of 
railroads passing through the county. The product of 
these mills is principally for export, but building mate- 
rial is of a necessity very cheap. 

The manufacture of Naval Stores from the Florida 
pine has recently come into prominence in this State. 
Since the pine forests of the Corolinas began to deterio- 
ate and business in those States wane, many large opera- 
tors have sought Alachua County's magnificent timbered 
tracts and begun manufacturing on large scales. 



STOCK RAISING, 

This IS one ot the most profitable incidents to a farm 
life, and occupies the time of many. The beef cattle of 
this county have always commanded the very highest 
prices in the State markets. 

17 



Many farmers are b.e^-iling standard s!ock. The 
cheapness of corn, oats, and ha}-, toi;ftliLT w ith the right 
prairie pasturage, and the climate prodiKos excellent 
animals. 

Sheep do well on grasses. Climatic conditions are so 
favorable to this animal that shelter is non-essential. 
The soil docs not produce any of the dreaded "lopp'^ 
weed of the Southwest and West. 

In addition to the prairie grasses there are a number 
of perennial grasses forming a close, heavy sod, which 
bears treading and constitutes a permanent pasturage 
for stock. 

There are four annual grasses— the "Crab," "Crow- 
foot,'' '-Barn" and '"Water," which furnish the prin- 
cipal hay supplies. The grasses abundantly seed them- 
selves, coming up when tlie land surfaces are stirred, 
from February to October. 



TRANSPORTATIO(( FACILITIES, 



The transportation facilities in Alachua County are 
unsurpassed by any portion of the State. Two lines of 
the Plant System pass through the county, one through 
the phosphate section, the other through Gainesville and 
on to Tampa. The Florida Southern Division of this sys- 
tem also enters ihe county, and terminates in Gaines- 
ville. The Florida Central & Peninsular Railroad lias 
two lituis passing through the county. The Gaincbville 
& Gulf Railroail extends South from Gainesville towaid 
Tampa, through some of the best Vi'getable lands in the 
SLati>. The Atlantic, SiiwiUincci River and Gulf Railroad 
furnishes transportation for lli<' Northern ])ortion of the 
count}'. 

There is now in eouise of construction a railroad ex- 
tending from Tallaliassee, Fla., through Alachua County, 
which will pro!) ibly terminate! in Gainesvill(>. and the 
Georgia Soul hern & Florida Railroad ^^iIl eve;.tu; lly 
e.v.end its line iiit(< thi.s county. 

18 



The assessed valuation of railroad property in this 
county, not including terminal facilities, is $1,072. 8 13. 



PM FOR /LL. 

Any man can succeed in Alnchua County by indus- 
try, economy and application to business. 

Come, if you have capital ro lend or invest in legiti- 
mate manufacturing or industrial enterprises. 

Come, if you are willing to assist in developing the 
wonderful resources of this county. 

Come, if you are plucky, energetic, and know how to 
embrace an opportunity when you see it. 

Come, if you are a practical horticulturist, vine 
grower, truck gardener or business man. 

Come, if you like a mild climate better than a cold 
one — a good "all the 3'ear round'' climate. 

Come, if you desire to live a retired life among na- 
ture s fairest flowers. 

Don't come empty handed. Capital is just as neces- 
sary to get a start here as any where else. 



19 




ALACHLA (UUNTY C'UUKT HOTj>>E. 



GAIHESVILLE, 



THE QUEEN CITY OF THE PENINSULA, COUNTY SEAT OF 
ALACHUA COUNTY. 



Gainesville is a growing manufacturing center where 
excellent opportunities are awaiting men oL' energy, skill 
and capital. It is situated almost geographically in the 
center of the State, on the main lines of the Plant Sys- 
tem of Railways, the Florida Central and Peninsula 
Railroad, and the Gainesville & Gulf Railroad. 

1,080 miles from New York, or thirty hours. 

850 miles from Washington, or twenty-four hours. 

1,148 miles from Chicago, or forty-one hours. 

],0-35 miles from St. Louis, or forty hours. 

24:'l miles from Savannah, or seven hours. 

70 miles from Jacksonville, or two hours. 

It is theteiininu- of the Florida Southern division of 
the Plant System, and headquarters of the Gainesville 
and Gulf Railroad, which is heing extended toward 
Tampa Bay. The Gainesville. Tallahassee and Western 
Railroad is now in course of construction, extending 
from Tallahassee. This road will develop a rich section 
of country, and assist materially in the advancement of 
Gainesville and Alachua County. 

The Georgia Southern and Florida Railroad Company 
will eventually extend their line to this city. 



PROSPERITY OF THE CITY. 



Backed as it is by fertile lands, progressive farmers 
and truck growers, the phosphate industry, naval stores 
and milling interests, it has always been considered one 

23 



of the most progressive cities in the State. The index of 
its prosperity is the character of its homes and bnsiness 
houses. The latter are of tlie most substantial kind, all 
built on modern st3Tes. mostly of l)i-ick. The merchants 
carry unusually large and ui) to date stocks, and can 
please the most fastidious tastes. One cannot fa^-i to be 
impressed with the beautiful homes of her people. Thev 
are well kept, and in the majority of cases sun^ounded 
by green lawns and gardens, rich in flowers and shrubs. 

The principal streets are broad, most of them 100 feet 
wide, regularl}- laid out. and shaded by hugh water oaks. 
These streets are paved with Alachua County rock, and 
lighted by electricity. 

The Water Works plant is one of the finest and most 
complete in the State. It is the property of the city, and 
was constructed at a cost of $(10,000, for the payment of 
which there was issued G per cent bonds. This consti- 
tutes the only indebtedness of the city. The supply of 
water is pumped from the renowned "Boulware" Springs, 
and is as pure chemically as any in the United States, 
and its purity has gained for Gainesville an envia- 
ble reputation. 

Chemical analysis of '•Bonlware" Springs Water, 
made by H. Herzog, Jr., Analytical Chemist and Mining 
Engineer, Gainesville, Fla., July 2i)th, 1898: 

Total solids, parts per million 70.80 

4| grains per gallon. 

Organic matter, parts per million 3.97 

Oxygen required to Oxidize, parts per luillion 1.45 

Albuminoid Ammonia, parts per million .00 

Free Ammonia, parts per million 04.3 

Nitrates, parts per million trace 

Nitrites, ]>arts per million none 

Alk-Chlorides, parts per million 8.G.3 

(Chlorine, 4.0S.) 

Silica, parts per million 5.21 

Alumina, parts per million 3.71 

Calcium Carbonate, parts per million 34.81 

Magnesium Carbonate, ]);n-ts ])er million 21.44 

Sulphuric Acid none 

H. HERZOG, Jr., Chemist. 

24 



I 



BUSSINESSfENTERPI|ISES. 



The enterprises and business houses of Gaiu'^sville 
may be divided as follows: 
2 Banks. 
2 Building and Loan Associations. 

1 Cotton Ginner}'. 

2 Moss Ginneries. 

■'^ 2 Wagon and Carriage Factories. 

t 2 Ice Manufactories, capacity twenty tons eoch. 

■ 2 Cigar Factories. 

1 Fertilizer Factory. 

1 Electric Light Plant. 

1 Gas Plant. 

1 Tannery, 

1 Sash and Door Factory. 

2 Planing Mills. 

1 Basket and Package Factor}'. 
1 Eojtling Establishment. 

1 Wholesale Grocery House. 

2 Wholesale and Retail Hardware Stores. 
15 Grocery Stores. 

7 Dry Goods and Millinery Stores. 
9 Gents' Furnishing Stores. \ 

2 Seed Stores. 

3 Racket Stores. 

4 Furniture Stores. 
] Bicycle Store. 

27 



2 News Depots. 

4 Drug Stores. 

2 Barber Shops. 

4 Saloons. 

4 Fish and Meat Markets. 

2 Tailor Shops. 

3 Jewelers. 

1 Dying and Cleaning Establishment, 
3 Photograph Galleries. 

2 Restuarants. 

2 Bakeries. 

3 Livery Stables. 

1 Music Store. 

2 Telegraph Offices. 

1 Daily and Weekly Newspaper. 
1 Express Office. 
1 Opera House. 

3 First-class Hotels. 

10 Private Boarding Houses. 



TO THEJYESTOI^. 



The population of Gainesville comprise about 5, ('00 
people, the majority of whom are fully alive to the nat- 
ural advantages and resources of their surroundings, 
that await the coming of more capital, and earnest, in- 
dustrious men to assist in developing them. Capitalists 
and Manufacturers who are seeking investment sites on 
which to locate plants will find many opportunities in 
Gainesville that will assure them of profitable returns. 
Its central location and healthfulness are superior ad- 
vantages. A number of factories of various kinds 
could be profitably operated from this point. Among 
them, cotton, cotton seed oil, glucose, cigar, canning, 
cider and vinegar, wood working, boot and shoe, and 
also a foundry and Machine shop. The largest factory 
of its kind in the State is that of the Florida Fertilizer 
Manufacturing Company, located here. 

There is also a grand opening for investments in 
city and suburban property. 

28 



TO THE HOME-SEEKEI|^, 

No city in Florida offers better in<lucements to the 
Home-seeker than Gainesvill'^. Fler peoph? are well bred, 
polite and kindly in manner and feeling. The social sen- 
timent is most liberal, and thf^-e exists tliat proi.onncedly 
warm hospitality to every wellbred strang^er, so characr- 
teristic of Southern manner and custom. 

In addition to healthfulness, there is nothing tnor^ 
necessary to the advancement of a community -iiau 
good schools and churches. Of these Gainesville is w. ]j 
supplied. Her churches are elegant brick struc'urts, 
with large congregations ably presided over. 

The educational advantages offered by Gainesville 
are not surpassed by any city in the State, and by few in 
the South. In addition to the City Graded and High 
School, there are a number of private schools and kin- 
dergardens in charge of thoroughly competent instriiC' 
tors. 



EAST FLORIDA SEMINARY, 



The East Florida Seminary is a State Military and 
Collegiate Institute, of which the'citizens of Florida nre 
proud. The Seminary buildings, consisting of an aci do- 
mic building and a dormitory for the residence of stu- 
dents and teachers, are handsome, commodious, and ad- 
mirably adapted to the purposes and regime of a military 
school. The grounds are ample, and the drill groumls 
are the finest in the State. 

-i^ arThe l-ranches of study taught at this Institution nre 
grouped under the following department: Mathematics. 
Science, English Language and History, Latin, Greek, 
Bookkeeping, Military Science and Tactics, Calistheiacs, 
and Modern Languages. 

The Instructors are thoroughly competent genth>- 
men and graduates of the leading Colleges of America. 

31 



opinions of Soma of the Officers of the Army and Navy Who Have 
Been Connected with the Seminary in the Capacity oF Instruc- 
tors in Mihtary Science. 

From Major A. L. Wagner, United States Army, 
first commandant of cadets at East Florida Seminary, 
late superintendent of United States Infantry and Cav- 
alry School, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, now in Adju- 
tant GeneraFs Department, Washington, D. C. : 

"As to the management of the East Florida Semin- 
ary, I have no comment but unqualified praise. 

The military department of the seminary is not 
merely an adjunct, but is 'bone of its bone, llesli of its 
flesh.' Military system and regularity pervade every 
branch and feature oi the school, and promptness and 
decision are virtues inculcated in every phase of the ca- 
det's existence. The drills furnish healthful exercise of 
the best kind; and though constituting an extended 
course of military training, they are not allowed to 
trench upon the time required for studies. The discip- 
line is firm and exacting, but gentle, and is based upon 
the piinciple that a boy's self-respect must be thoroughly 
cultivated in order that it may be the solid foundation of 
a true manhood.'' 

From Captain Charles A. Curtis, United States Army 
(retired): 

"I have for twenty-five years been under detail as 
luilitary instructor, and during that time have been at- 
tached to four different military schools, in as many 
quarters of the Union, three years of which I spent at 
the East Florida Seminary. The seminary, in my opin- 
ion, compares favorabl}' with the best institutions in all 
that constitutes a good school, and especially in its mili- 
tary feature, which is much above the average. 

"The school is well managed under its present head." 

Fr )in Captain F. J, Kenian, Acting Judge Advo- 
cate. United States Army: 

"The East Florida Seminary, with its central and un- 
surpassed location, its long years of useful work behind 

3-e 



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> 

I— I 
Q 

K 



o 
o 

CD 






o 




it, and its military feature, deserves well the patronage 
of those parents who have boys to educate." 

From Lieutenant Charles G. Morton, United States 
Army : 

''In my opinion the East Florida Seminary is now, 
and is destined to continue, one of the finest schools in 
the South."' 

Col. Edwin P. Cater, Superintendent, will cheerfully 
furnish additional information. 

Among the benevolent societies having florishing 
lodges in Gainesville may be mentioned the Masons, 
Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Knights of Honor, 
and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. 



TO THE TOURIST. 



The hotel and boarding house accommodations of 
Gainesville are excellent, and good board may be had at 
prices ranging from 64.00 to $8.00 per week. The hotels 
are conveniently located near the business portion of the 
city. The boarding houses are well kept, most of them 
with much elegance and by refined ladies. Board may 
also be had with private families by those desirous of 
avoiding publicit}^ These houses are all fitted with 
modern conveniences, such as bath rooms, city water, 
electric or gas lights, etc. 

The charms of Gainesville as an inland winter re- 
sort, attractive in many ways to tourists and visitors, 
have become so generally known that but little com- 
ment is necessary. Especially has Gainesville gained 
popularity among those who visit Florida to enjoy the 
hunting which the surrounding country affords. Quail, 
snipe, duck, turkey, squirrels and deer are plentiful. 
Fishing in the two large lakes near Gainesville also 
affords much amusement. To all lovers of out door 
sports there is no better opportunity afforded than by 



spending a winter here. The distance is short, quickly 
traveled, and may he made hy land or water, and the 
fare is easily within reach of a moderate purse. 



TO THE INVALID. 



The impression has been created that a winter spent 
in Florida is a luxury that only the rich can afford. This 
is by no means true. The necessaries of life are not at all 
expensive, but luxuries and novelties impoverish the 
purse— and Florida is no exception to the rule. 

There is but little rain during the winter and the air 
is benelicial to delicate lungs. The days are generally 
warm and pleasant and tlie nights cool enough to insure 
comfortable sleep. 

The physicians of Gainesville are among the best in 
the country, and the drug stores first-class and well 
equipped. Livery stables are conveniently located, and 
their charges are very moderate. 

Located in Gainesville is the National Sanitarium for 
Odd Fellows, an imposing brick structure erected in 1893. 
This in itself speaks volumes of praise for the health- 
fulness of the city. This institution opens November 
1st and closes June 1st. 



CONTEMPLATED IMPROVEMENTS. 

The natural drainage of Gainesville is good, but will 
soon be improved by the construction of a first class sys- 
tem of sewerage. 

A forty-acre Magnolia grove adjoinin^j the city has 
been selected as a suitable location for a Public Park. 
This will add greatly to the attractiveness of the city. 

i^"" For any information not furnished herein write 
Griffin & Co., Gainesville, enclosing a stamp for reply. 



r^© 





RESIDENCE OF i'. MlLLEli, CiAINliSVILLE. 











A J).\V ON EAKE NEWXAX. 



W. R. THOMAS, Prop'r, 



Ci 






m CI 



GAINESVILLE, FLA. 




LUC 



CarriagGSj Buggies, Phaetons, Wagons^ 
TTarncss, Robes'^\aiKl Whips, at 




• PRICES, -♦ 



Stylish Turnouts and Trusty Attendants. 



Call and see my stock when visiting Gainesville. 

Prompt Service. Charges Reasonable. 






5 



IJc'ulei' ill 



DRY GOODS, 

FANCY GOODS 



AND 



MILLINERY. 



NOTIONS, GENTS' FUR 
NISHINGS, SHOES. 



Our Motto. 
BEST GOODS AT LOWEST PRICES," 



The Largest and Most Complete Dry-Goods 
House in Alachua County. 





MM 




(iniiK sville, Alnclma County, Florida. 



Manufacturers of High Grade 

Fertilizers for all kinds of 

Vegetables and Orange 

Trees, and a 

Special Formula for Cigar Leaf Tobacco. 



We are growers of tobacco, having a 45-acre farm, 
well equipped with large barns for pole curing. Also 
operate a large curing house in Gainesville for the 
purpose of curing, sweating, betuning and putting the 
tobacco in shape for the cigar manufacturers. All 
goods put up in Cuban style. 



BUYERS OF FLORIDA TOBACCO, 



H. r. DUTTON & CO. 




MINERS AND SHIPPERS OF 



sphatc 



GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA, U. S. A. 



Y/. &,W. H. STFiD, Agents, : : London and liverpool, Englard. 



J AS. M. (JHAHA^r, Prcsidout GEO. W. HYDE, Vice-rresido-t 



The Firs! National Bank 



riATNESVTLLE, FLA. 



red natisc in 



Capital 

Surplus and Undividod Profits 



$50,000.(!0 

18,000.<Hi 



Do s fxeUi-ivoly a h.tikinof husinoss, widi fncilitio-- oqunl m 
auy bank in the state. Solicits the aoeoimts of Fanners, Merehan ; , 
Corioratior.s, c'.c. Interest allowi d hy fpceial arranfrement. All 
business ir.iuFactcd proniptly, JI. E TAYLOR, Cashier. 



E. BAIRD. 



X. J. SW^EARINOKN. 



E. BAIRD a 6:0., 

GainesviJle, F:Ia. 



Wholesale 
and Retail 
Dealers in 



General 



Our stock comprises everything required by ev- 
erybody from the housewife to the phosphate miner. 
We are agents for and carry in stock 

ROEBLINGS WIRE ROPE, 

E. C. ATKINS & COS. SAWS, 

CHATTANOOGA MILLS AND PLOWS, 

DUPONT'S EXPLOSIVES, 

QUICK MEAL GASOLINE STOVES, 

BUCK'S STOVES AND RANGES 

GLADIATOR RUBBER BELTS, 

PLANET, Jr., GOODS, 

GOULD MANUFACTURING CD'S. PUMPS. 

Stevens Bros.' Jugs, Ctiurns and Pots. 

Our Tin and Plumbing shop is thoroughly 
equipped- Inquiries and orders solicited. 



EDWARD O'DONALD. 



M. B. SAUNDERS. 



O'DONALD & SAUNDERS, 

(Successors (o Phillip Miller ife Co.) 



n 



Wholesale and 
Retaii Dealers in 





B 




FLOUR, MEAL AND GRITS, HAY 

AND GRAIN, QUEENSWARE, 
GLASSWARE, JUGS, TILING, Etc. 



Agents for ... 




laam 




BIO VOLES. 



Gainesville, Florida 

fcOL'TH-EAST COllXER 
EAST MAIN AND LIBERTY STREETS. 



MILLER & AVERA, 

GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



DEALERS IN 



Slalionerf, Candies, Cipfs, Tobacco, Manlels, Gial" 



TiLinsra-, etc. 



, . FINEST SODA WATER OUTFIT IN THE STATE . . 



S. V. DUKE, 

GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



DEALER IN 



Pure Wines, Liquors, Beer and Cigars. 



Headquarters for Importers and Domestic Rums, Gins, Brandies 
and Wliisl(ies. 



PROMPT ATTENTION GIVEN THE M TRADE . . 



PiOS -!- fli 




AT KETAIL FACTOllY PKlCliS. 



TERMS TO SUIT THE PURCHA ER, 



Fischer, 
Kimball, 
Crown, 
Kimball. 



UP-TO-DATE Whitney, 
PIANOS Hinzeand 

AND Franklin. 

ORGANS. ^'Crown." 

Sent to any point in Florida on approval. 
Freight paid both ways if not satisfactory. Corres- 
pondence solicited. 

JAS. A. ABRAMS, 

Manufacturers, Agcut, Gainesville, riu 

PEDRICK & SMITH, 

GAINESVILLE, FlORIDa. 



Mauuliicturers of 

Hljti Grade Buggies, Wagons 
and Carts. 

Call and Sec Us Before Purcluisiiiy. 
Prices the Lowest. 




E3TABLISHE0 1884. 



J. R. EDDINS, 

Mmufietiirer of an 1 De.'tlcr in 

DOORS, SASH AHI> BLIHDS, 

ORNAMENTAL. EMBOSSED WORK A SPECIALTY, 

Stair N.ew<^]s, Balusters, Brackets, ]\fonlding, 
Rough and Dressed Cyi)ress Lumber a specialty, 
Laths, Shingles, Brick and Lime. 

BOILDINGS ERECTED ON SHORT NOTICE. 

GAINESVILLE, EL A. 

The Alaclma County Abstract Go., 



Complete Ab.stracts of Title Furnished. Taxes 
p.iifl. Land returned for Assessment. We investi- 
gate and report on the Title to any and all Lands. 



Correspondence Solicited. 
Ref ere noes. mum 

FIRST NATIONAL 3ANK. 
H. F, DUTTON & CO., (Bankers.) 



DORSET & WAUCH, 

GAINESVILLE, FLA., 



DEALERS IN 



Staple and Fancy, Groceries, Grain, * 
Hay, Crockery and Glassware. 






iEii^^ft!, imik* .....M 



SW] til 111 



Seed and Farming Impleiiients. All 
Kinds of Farmers Supplies. 

, . We Lecid in Lov/ Prices . . 

Y/EST SIDE SQUARE - GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



»»9 

E. B. WHIDDON, Manager. 
GAINESVILLE, - - - FLORIDA. 



Tourists Headquarters I Central location! Weekly or 
monthly rates on application. 






^•ARLINGTON HOTELS 

'^ ' ■ MRS. C. J. SEAGLE, Proprietress. 

GABNESVILLE, - - FLORIOA. 

:;ewly fubnishp^d throughout, 
near public square 

Large sample room for commercial men free. Monthly 
and -weekly rates' oil application. ■■ . 



■ fTIi"""''^''^"— — '"•^"— ™—— *^™**'«=^"™'^"— "■' MiBiMiBMi I ■ i*inmiiif.t.«rAT7T)Ttttri 



GAINESVILLE, FLA. 

STRICTLY FIRST-CLASS. 



Florida visitors make this headquarters.. Open all the 
year. 



GRAHAM BROS., 






BICYCLES AND SUNDRIES. 



iCf » ?"♦ \ it-i \ >; i>. 



ICO D A 1-i. !-.TJ I » l» . 1 l'J-» 

West Side Square, Cainesviile. Fla. 

CnY- MARKET, 

J. i. HARROLD & GO, Props. 

The Finest Beef, Mutton, and Pork, 

and Fish, Oysters and Game 

in Season. 



A. M.CUSHMAN, 

GAINESVILLE, FL V 
Fire, Life and Accident fnsiirance. Siirttv 
lioiKls lurni^^lied Stale, County and Muni- 
cipal ofticials: 

Ooi-i'ospoiKlc^iici* ^ol ioitoci, 

Hopatio Davis. 

Attorney and Counselor at Law, 

GAINESVILLE, - - - FLOI^lDA 



WM. wade HAMPTON, 

Attorney aiicl Counsellor at Law and Solicitor in 
Chancery. 



GAINESVILLE, - - - - FLORIDA, 
Piactice in State and Federal Courts. 



ESTABLISHED 1868. 

Let Us Make Your Clothes. 



We nre TAILORS, CLOTHI- RS and GENTS' FURNISHERS. 
Rest E(iuippe<l Tailoring Establisbmont in Florida. 

NEW YORK CLOTHING CO., A. M. ENDEL, Mgr. and Prop'r.. 

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA. 



''SMITH THE JEWELER/' 

GAiNESV LLf , FLORIDA. 

Is hea<i(jiuirtor.s for !• verything carried in Stock liy I'' I I^ST OL.'NSS 
JEWi lil'JtS Kis Stock is uf) lo (late and lUiaranieed. Piict-s 
lower t^iHii a liy firm in Florida. 

-*fc,^_ Expert Repairing A Specialty. ^> 

WM. SCOTT,""'""^ 
MERCHANT TAlLOPx, 

GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



Most complete Establishment in Middle Florida. 

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. 



'S^ A A 



FIRE, LIFE AND ACCIDENT. 

ONLY FIRST CLASS COMPANIES REPRESENTED. 



P 



H. W. Harriman, Prop'r., 



B. F. JORDAN, Agent, 

GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



orsi 



HOT AND COLD BATHS. 

First-CSass Service- 



'%i 






When ^isifing Oainesville, 

IHIIG STORE, 



Be sure and call at 



Wliere will be found the Largest and best selected Stock of Cloth- 
ing, Furnishings, Shoes and Hats. 

OUR GRADES ARE THE BEST, PRICES CHEAPEST. 



CHEAPEST STORE ON EARTH. 



Dry Goods, Notions, Hats, Shoes, Furniture and 
. . . Everything . . . 

west Side square. RHIFER BROS. 

Gainesville. Fla. 




GAINESVILLE, FLA, 



/ 



Attorney for R. G. DUNN & CO, 




Edwards' Opera House and Wine Room 

One of ih<' nrettit-s' <>iiev;i H /uses iu tiie .Ma- ; Seat n;; oapacily 6vi(l— s ri^ fly first-cl ifes at- 
tractions always pay Opera HoU'-e Wine Koom on groiiud floor is one ot ilie hiinvisomest 
in the State, aiid always supplied with tlie very b..-t of everything. 1 am solo agent and 
wholesale >,dcaler for the Auheuser-Bu32h Brewing Association St. Louis famous..]£eg 
and bottle ''ccr. J- F. EDWARDS, rroprietor. 



DAILY. 



.6EMI-WpEKL¥, 









9 

GAINESVILLE, FLA. 

H. N. fVlcOreary, Editor and Proprietor, 



PUBLISHED IN THE HEART OP THE VEGETABLE 
AND PHOSPAATE BELT. 

OLDEST ESTABLISHED PAPER IN THE COUNTY. 

DAILY $5. SEMI-WEEKLY $1. 
ADVERTISING RATES REASONABLE. 



"VT". L. HILXj, 



GAINESVILLE, FLA. 



Represents the OLD! "SI' IN TFR NATION. ^L 

LIFIC INSURANCE CC)Mi\ANY IN THE 

WORLD -THE NEW YORK LIFE. 



luvostigate the Policy Contracts of this C'ompany before placing 
your Insurance. 



\ 



/ 



/ 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



014 499 851 % 






mwrm if zt 






We have for sale bargains in homes and building 
lots in Gainesville. Also choice properties in Alachua 
county, consisting of Orange and Pear Groves, Truck 
and Farming Lands and admirable locations for 
Stock Farms. Opposite Brown House, Gainesville, 
Fla. Correspondence solicited. 

References: First National Bank, H. F. Datton & Co., Bankers. 



